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Senator Schimpf announces library grant recipients

9/5/2018

Three Dist. 58 libraries to receive funding for programming

Senator Paul Schimpf (R-Waterloo) is pleased to announce that three libraries within District 58 will receive grant funding through the Project Next Generation program. The district will see close to $40,000 in funding. In total, $526,790 in 2019 grants will be awarded to 31 public libraries statewide.

Project Next Generation is a mentoring program administered through Illinois public libraries. The program offers grant funding to public libraries for establishing educational, "after-school" programs that not only provide access to computers, software, and various technological devices, but also hire mentors who are crucial to helping students develop self-confidence and pride in their newly acquired skills.

2019 Recipients:

Carbondale Public Library, Carbondale – $17,468

Pinckneyville Public Library, Pinckneyville – $10,000

Sparta Public Library, Sparta – $12,500

The Project Next Generation grant program encourages personal growth and the educational development of at risk students through the use of mentors, technology and library based group projects. The goal is to bridge the digital divide by making recent technologies accessible to students who have limited access to computers.

In a similar manner, the program strives to provide a safe and friendly environment filled with positive role models. The mentors involved with the program foster the development of self-confidence and pride in their students by helping them gain technical knowledge necessary for future educational and professional success.

Program questions?

For more information, please call 217-782-5506 or visit the Project Next Generation website.

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About Senate District 58

The 58th Senate District includes all or parts of Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Randolph, Monroe, St. Clair, Washington, and Union Counties and represents more than 220,000 Illinois citizens. Discover more at senatorschimpf.com and find him on Facebook.